Magical cave temples of India

June 25,2024

Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Dating back to the 2nd century BCE, the Ajanta Caves are a group of 30 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments.

Credit: Pixabay

Ajanta Caves, Maharashtra

The Ellora Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, were excavated between the 6th and 10th centuries. This complex comprises 34 caves representing Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions.

Credit: Pixabay

Ellora Caves, Maharashtra

Located on Elephanta Island near Mumbai, these caves date back to the mid-5th to 6th centuries. They are primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Credit: Pixabay

Elephanta Caves, Maharashtra

Carved into a red sandstone cliff in the 6th century, the Badami Caves consist of four main caves representing Hinduism and Jainism.

Credit: Pixabay

Badami Caves, Karnataka

These 20 rock-cut caves, dating back to the early 5th century, are among the oldest surviving Hindu temples in India. They were commissioned by King Chandragupta II of the Gupta Empire.

Credit: Pixabay

Udayagiri Caves, Madhya Pradesh

Situated within the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai, the Kanheri Caves were developed between the 1st century BCE and the 10th century CE. They served as a major Buddhist center.

Credit: Pixabay

Kanheri Caves, Maharashtra

Although primarily known for prehistoric rock paintings, the Bhimbetka shelters also feature Buddhist cave temples from the medieval period.

Credit: Pixabay

Bhimbetka Rock Shelters, Madhya Pradesh

An important pilgrimage site for Hindus, the Amarnath Cave is believed to be over 5,000 years old. It is associated with the legend of Lord Shiva revealing the secret of immortality to his consort, Parvati.

Credit: Pixabay

Amarnath Cave, Jammu and Kashmir

The Karla Caves were excavated in the 2nd century BCE and are among the oldest Buddhist rock-cut caves in India. They were patronized by the Mauryan and Satavahana dynasties.

Credit: Pixabay

Karla Caves, Maharashtra

These lesser-known caves in Mumbai date back to the 6th century and are among the earliest Hindu cave temples dedicated to various deities.

Credit: Pixabay

Jogeshwari Caves, Maharashtra